Five Colorado Mesa University students have been selected for the statewide Colorado Water Fellows Program for the 2026-2027 academic year, an initiative aimed at developing future water leaders. The Ruth Powell Hutchins Water Center at CMU reported a record 63 applications for these five positions, making this year's selection the most competitive since the program began at CMU in 2024. This heightened interest underscores the growing importance of water management and conservation for residents of the Grand Valley and across Colorado.
The Water Center at CMU received applications from August 13 to September 4, with students from 27 different major programs seeking to join the cohort. Each of the chosen fellows for the 2026-2027 program represents a diverse academic discipline and demonstrated exemplary qualifications among their peers, according to the Water Center. Participation in the program includes a $1,000 stipend for each student.
Ivy Zipp, one of the newly selected fellows, was previously awarded a student research grant by the Water Center last spring. Her research focused on acid mine drainage and its impact on the health of macroinvertebrate communities, highlighting the practical and environmental aspects of water studies. The program emphasizes that every selected student brings a unique perspective and passion for water-related issues.
The Colorado Water Fellows Program supports the next generation of Colorado water leaders by exploring how water connects diverse fields. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students learn about potential internship and employment opportunities within the water sector and how water shapes daily life in the region and beyond. Murillo, a new fellow, expressed excitement to learn from a community of students and professionals across many disciplines. Ivy Zipp also noted that previous participants spoke highly about the “knowledge, connections and experience” gained from the program, adding that she can already see it is “deserving of the praise.”
Throughout the 2026-2027 academic year, the fellows will engage with various water professionals who will lead discussions on critical topics such as water law, water equity, and drought response during monthly meetings. Site visits are also planned to provide hands-on learning experiences related to water resources, including irrigation techniques, municipal water systems, and wastewater management practices. These activities offer direct exposure to the challenges and solutions facing water users in Grand Junction and Mesa County.
In addition to monthly meetings and site visits, the CMU Water Fellows will attend water conferences throughout the year at no cost. They will also participate in the annual Water Fellows Convening, an event that brings together fellows from across the state. This convening provides an opportunity for CMU students to network and share insights with peers from other participating universities.
The program has a track record of connecting students with professional opportunities. Alumni have secured positions and internships with organizations such as the Water Center, Colorado Water Trust, and the Southwest Conservation Corps, among other employers in the water field. For example, Briana Galland, an alum from the 2025-2026 CMU Water Fellows cohort, recently presented her research alongside CMU Professor of Civil Engineering Joel Sholtes at the Sustaining Watersheds Conference this month.
The Colorado Water Fellows Program began at CMU in 2024, with the belief that “every major is a water major,” welcoming students from all majors and disciplines. Thanks to funding from the Colorado Water Conservation Board, CMU will continue to offer the program in 2027 and 2028. The statewide program involves 11 universities, boasts 150 alumni, and represents 35 different majors across Colorado. It is sponsored by Colorado State University’s Colorado Water Center, which receives additional support from the Walton Family Foundation.
The Ruth Powell Hutchins Water Center plans to open applications for the 2027-2028 cohort at the start of the fall 2027 semester. Interested students, including those who were not selected this year, are encouraged to apply during the next application cycle. For any questions regarding the program, students can contact CMU Water Fellows Coordinator Jordan Strickler.
